Never Send an Angry Email

My time as EIC is ending in the next month and I’ve debated attending sessions that focus solely on how to be a better editor-in-chief. As a senior about to enter the work force I’m trying to find a nice mix. With that being said, I started the morning with Mr. Elsen, formerly of The Washington Post, in “Thinking Like and Editor.”

He’s an old-school journalist who really emphasized students should learn the basics of journalism and leadership and it will transfer across any platforms.

Qualifications for a Good Leader

Admit mistakes

Create publication specific stylebook

Be an expert in all the fields

Acquire respect from staff

Understand various leadership and personalities of people

Remain responsible to your readers

Follow organization and hierarchy

Become a teacher

When you leave, be sure to have developed a staff

I’d like to add one more to this list and that’s being a good self-assessor. I know my leadership style has never been one to give an abundant amount of positive feedback so it’s nice to have a friendly reminder that you should never send an angry email and give positive feedback in a crowd.